Watch the Ball Drop in Gatlinburg

New Year’s Eve is one of the most anticipated days of the year. While it is not actually a federal holiday, it has come to be more of a celebration than New Year’s Day itself, and New Year’s Day has become a day to relax and…recover. And while many Americans choose to spend the hours leading up to the new year dancing, drinking, and bar hopping with friends, you may be looking for a tamer, more family-friendly night. If you’re looking for some fun, but can’t quite party like it’s 1999, then Gatlinburg’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show is the perfect place for you on December 31st.

To welcome the new year of 2012, Gatlinburg will host its 24th annual event around the intersection of Parkway and Historic Nature Trail, at the foot of the Space Needle. The ball will drop at midnight, followed by a fireworks show choreographed to music. While you wait for the big moment, enjoy music from a local DJ and favors provided by Mr.Tablecloth. As if fireworks, a ball drop, a DJ and party favors weren’t enough, there is one more great reason not to miss this event—it’s free! And on New Year’s Eve, finding a free place to celebrate is not easy. Most places have cover charges of at least $15 per person, and free is always better.

For holiday celebrations, the city of Gatlinburg generally has one philosophy—go big or go home. So, if you’re up for more fun after the ball drops and the fireworks fade away, there will be no shortage of places to party around town. At Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, you can “Dance With the Sharks,” from 9 pm New Year’s Eve until 1 am New Year’s Day. Check out the Ripleys of Gatlinburg website for more information about the event. Other local restaurants and bars will be open for the holiday, and many will offer great deals and special packages, as well as plenty of entertainment.